Chiyomaru intai Press Conference
Moti Dichne
Former Makuuchi Chiyomaru held a retirement press conference with his Oyakata, Kokonoe Oyakata, at the Ryogoku Kokugikan in Tokyo on the 2nd. He explained his reason for retirement, saying, "After I was demoted to Makushita, the feeling of regret faded somewhat, and I felt it was time to call it quits." He revealed his feelings, saying, "I feel refreshed, or rather, a little relieved." After graduating from Shibushi Junior High School in Kagoshima Prefecture, he joined Kokonoe beya. His active career lasted approximately 19 years, with 31 bashos in Makuuchi and 33 bashos in Juryo. He was promoted to Juryo in the autumn basho of 2013 and to Makuuchi in the spring basho of 2014. His highest rank was East Maegashira 5. He was loved not only for his sumo but also for his character. He frequently appeared on variety shows. He was nicknamed "Chiyomaru-tan." His rounded physique and sleepy face became a hot topic on social media, with people saying he was "adorable" and "cute," which further boosted the popularity of sumo. "I was a little embarrassed, but I was happy." Kokonoe Oyakata also said that he "broke the mold of 'strength = popularity'" and that this represents a new norm in the sumo world. When asked about his most memorable match, he said it was "the match against Oniarashi at the Nagoya basho where I was promoted to Juryo." He entered the 2013 Nagoya basho as East Makushita 1, and after the 11th day, he had a record of 3 wins and 3 losses. He recalled, "I was nervous for about three days leading up to the final day." He revealed, "I was acting as a tsukebito in the shitakubeya, and there was another rikishi, Chiyosakae, there. I remember him slapping me before I walked to the dohyo." He defeated Oniarashi via hatakikomi, securing his kachikoshi and his promotion. After that, he spent 31 bashos in the Makuuchi, rising to the rank of East Maegashira 5.
He will remain with the Kyokai as a wakaimonogashira, guiding younger members. "I want to do my best to help in any way I can, to be able to do as much as I can," he said, expressing his aspirations. [Ryotaro Yamada]
